In 2025 Hull KR etched its name into the annals of rugby league by becoming only the fifth club in the competition’s three‑decade history to capture the Super League Grand Final. That remarkable achievement was largely credited to the stewardship of head coach Willie Peters, who, in just his third season at the helm, guided the Robins to an unprecedented haul of silverware. Under his direction the team not only lifted the Betfred Super League trophy but also secured the League Leaders’ Shield, added a Challenge Cup triumph to their résumé, and capped the year with a World Club Challenge victory over the Brisbane Broncos. In short, every major prize on offer that season ended up in Hull KR’s trophy cabinet, cementing their status as the team to beat, even if no opponent could finally dislodge them.

Midway through the 2026 campaign it was announced that the upcoming season would be Peters’ swan song with the club. He had accepted an offer to become head coach of the newly‑formed Papua New Guinea Chiefs, the latest expansion franchise in the NRL. The club set a clear objective for his final months: finish on a high note and give the supporters a proper farewell. Unfortunately, the narrative did not unfold like a fairy‑tale.

After finishing sixth in the regular season standings, Hull KR entered the elimination round where they were drawn against Warrington Wolves. The Robins fell short, exiting the playoffs at the hands of the Wolves. Despite the disappointing finish, Peters reflected on his four‑year spell with unmistakable pride. In an interview with Sky Sports after the loss, he described the period as "the best four years of my life" and emphasized how much he valued the experience.

He acknowledged that discipline issues had cost the side dearly in the decisive match, but he refused to place blame on his players. "I am really proud of them," he said.

"They kept fighting to the end. Warrington played a superb game and have been a very strong side all year. I wish them all the best, but I am incredibly proud of the group and what we have achieved together at this club.

We have created many beautiful memories." Peters also spoke candidly about the challenges that arose when the team was reduced to twelve men during the game. "When you’re down to twelve it makes it difficult, but we kept ourselves in the contest. We scored, went two points ahead, and then, against the run of play, they responded," he recalled.

He noted that fatigue inevitably set in during the latter stages, a factor that can tip the balance in high‑intensity knockout rugby. He paid tribute to veteran centre Peta Hiku, who had been a stalwart for three seasons.

"Peta has been great for us. What he did [getting sent off] was probably the wrong thing, but he has been outstanding for me over the last three years," Peters added. The coach’s reflections moved beyond the on‑field result. He highlighted the close‑knit nature of the Hull KR community, a club that has always aspired to win trophies and, for a brief but glorious period, succeeded.

"We were well beaten, but we still showed a lot of fight. My family and I have had an absolute ball. We’ve loved it here and we’ll never forget our time at Hull KR," he said, underscoring the deep personal connections forged during his tenure. Love, according to Peters, was a central theme of his time in Hull.

He recalled a piece of advice from former South Sydney Rabbitohs great Russell Crowe, who once told him that "it’s all about the love". "When you’re part of a family and create the right environment, especially in sport, where everyone cares about each other, you can do wonderful things," Peters explained. He felt that mutual respect and affection between players, staff, and supporters had been the engine that drove the club’s achievements. "There’s no doubt I’ve felt the love from the fans and the players, and vice versa.

I love them too. When there’s genuine care and love for each other, you can achieve special things," he affirmed. Looking ahead, Peters expressed genuine excitement about his next chapter in Papua New Guinea. He described the upcoming role as an opportunity to make a positive impact on a nation where rugby league is a cultural cornerstone.

"I’m really looking forward to the next chapter and to having a positive impact on a country (Papua New Guinea) through rugby league, both on and off the field," he said. He likened the challenge to what he had accomplished at Hull KR, but on a larger scale, noting that the chance to develop the sport in a passionate, emerging market thrilled him. Even as he prepares to leave the UK, Peters admitted he would never completely close the door on a possible return. He has already ticked off his goal of coaching in the Super League, yet he remains an advocate for the competition.

"I will continue to back the European competition and ensure it gets the recognition it deserves," he promised. He reflected on how Hull KR had become a true home for him and his family, especially during the 2025‑2026 seasons when the club felt most like a permanent base. "This has been home, and probably this year was the first time it really felt like home, which made it even harder knowing I was leaving.

My family and I have loved it, so you never say never," he added. Peters also praised the broader rugby league ecosystem in the north of England, noting that the sport is in a healthy position with significant growth prospects. "The product is outstanding and it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves, even in Australia," he observed. He acknowledged that the Super League has not always received the respect it merits, but his personal respect for the competition never wavered.

"That’s why I played here and why I always wanted to coach here," he said, expressing pride in having contributed to the league’s development. He concluded by thanking everyone who had supported him throughout his journey: the board members, the coaching staff, the players, the fans—both home and away—and the wider community. "They’ve made me a better person and a better coach," he said gratefully.

"I’ve now got an opportunity to return to the NRL, something I’ve always wanted to do, and it’s purely because of what we achieved together here. At the end of the day, the players decide how hard they want to work and where they want to get to, and they’ve been massive for me and my family." The article also listed upcoming fixtures in the Super League playoffs, reminding readers that the competition continues to captivate audiences across the UK.

On Friday, September 18, Wakefield Trinity faced Leigh Leopards, followed by Warrington Wolves taking on Hull KR on September 19. The semi‑finals are scheduled for September 25 and 26, with matches broadcast live on Sky Sports, leading up to the Grand Final at Old Trafford on October 3. In summary, Willie Peters’ era at Hull KR will be remembered as a period of unprecedented success, heartfelt community bonds, and personal growth. While his departure marks the end of a historic chapter, his legacy endures in the trophies, memories, and the lasting love he cultivated among players and supporters alike.

The future holds new challenges in Papua New Guinea, but the imprint he leaves on Hull KR and the Super League will remain for years to come.